Beauty Box Five Review: September, October & November

Recently there have been a lot of media events and I’ve been on a few press trips which left little time for Beauty Box Five updates. Today I’m featuring the last 3 boxes which will give you a good idea of the variety and quality offered. 

Before I delve into the box let’s review how the service works. Beauty Box Five is a subscription that starts at $12 for the monthly box, $30 for the quarterly subscription and $99 dollars for a year. You receive a mix of luxury items and common brands with products for: hair, skin and nails as well as fragrances and beauty accessories. The box contains 5 products and usually includes 1-3 full sized items. It is a great way to sample a variety of new brands!

September’s Box

*Pur~Lisse Blue Lotus Essential Moisturizer with SPF 30 (sample size)

This brand has been included in many previous boxes and I like that the cream is formulated with nourishing white tea, soy protein and algae extracts. It is also safe for sensitive skin and the light finish is ideal for use under makeup without leaving behind a white, sticky residue.

*Be A Bombshell Smooth Criminal HD Finishing Powder (full size included - $7.00)

I didn’t expect to like this setting powder as much as I do but it smoothes and mattifies expertly for a flawless finish. When applied over foundation I don’t need a makeup base and it makes my complexion look poreless, even and silky!

*Simple Skincare Cleansing Wipes (sample included with 7 cloths)

I love these makeup wipes from Simple and this little pack is perfect for my next weekend getaway. The formula is gentle and removes makeup, dirt and oil efficiently.

*Happy Hair Tuban (retail value - $18.00)

Micro-fiber towels are great because they help dry my hair without causing frizz or breakage. I can pop on a shower cap, wrap my hair with the towel and use the heat generated to enhance deep conditioning treatments. This one is large enough to handle my long, thick hair.

*Go Smile Teeth Whitening Gel (sample included)

I’ve been looking for a non-painful teeth whitening solution for a while now so I'm excited to try this out.

October’s Box

*Chella Ivory Lace Highlighter Pencil (full size - $18.00)

This multi-purpose, creamy pencil can be used to highlight and conceal under the eyes, brighten the inner corners or waterline and define the brow bones.

*Color Me Femme Gold Perfume (sample included)

I’m definitely a perfume lover and this scent is bold, sexy, robust and elegant. The composition includes citrus, floral notes and fruit with hints of spice. I just wish the sample had a little spray top because the tube is difficult to open.

*Emery + Ivory Custom nail Appliques (full size - $12.99)

If you want to add some nail art to your mani these decals are an easy way to do it. The appliqués stretch and stick with the ability to be filed down to fit your nails and the marbled design is currently on-trend.

*Real Her Moisturizing Lipstick (full size - $18.00)

I was hoping to get the deeper shade that went out in the October box but I received the neutral hue instead. Although it isn’t my favorite color the pink undertone makes it more wearable and I like the creamy texture.

*Amlactin Ultra Hydrating Body Cream (sample included)

I’ve never heard of this brand before but the sample is a decent size. For winter the rich formula does a great job at deeply hydrating rough, dry skin but the scent reminds me of stale coffee.

November’s Box

*Briogeo Deep Conditioning Hair Mask (sample included)

When the weather gets cold I love a good deep conditioner and this one contains no parabens, sulfates, artificial colors, silicones or fragrance but it smells fantastic and has a nice creamy texture. It is formulated to repair damage and breakage for a strong, healthy mane.

*Manna Kadar Lip Lock Stain in the shade Shae (sample)

I love the creamy, full coverage pigmentation of this saturated lip color but the shade isn’t my favorite. I would have preferred a rich hue but at least I know the formula is great for future reference.

*Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes (sample included – 7 wipes)

I’ve used the Neutrogena grapefruit wipes before and they stung my eyes so I hope this formula is gentle and effective.

*Peony Shadow Trio (full size included - $17.95)

Finally an eye shadow palette! I wish BB5 would include more shadow compacts since I love the colors in this one. The shadows are soft and velvety with good pigmentation.

*BB5 Cut That Crease Angle Brush (retail value $10.00)

A sharp cut crease is definitely trendy and although I don’t know if this brush will help you achieve that curvy definition, it does a decent job blending pigment.

For more information or to sign up for the subscription visit the website by clicking HERE

Beauty Box Five April

April’s Beauty Box 5 is all about embarking on a hydration vacation and taking your skin from blah to beautiful by revitalizing the complexion. From great skincare to bright, juicy color, I’m really digging this month’s collection of goodies!

Before I delve into the box let’s review how the service works. Beauty Box Five is a subscription that starts at $12 for the monthly box, $30 for the quarterly subscription and $99 dollars for a year. You receive a mix of luxury items and common brands with products for: hair, skin and nails as well as fragrances and beauty accessories. The box contains 5 products and usually includes 1-3 full sized items. It is a great way to sample a variety of new brands!

Jelly Pong Pong Paradise Pigment in the shade Fig Jam (full size included ~ $19.00)

This pretty pink pigment retails for more than the cost of the box! It also happens to be my favorite product and with a fun name like Jelly Pong Pong who can blame me!? As soon as I saw the vibrant shade of pink I knew it was a match made in lippy heaven and it doubles as a cheek tint! Simply layer on the lips from sheer to medium coverage or lightly dab and blend onto the face for a flush of color. The texture is pleasantly creamy, the pigmentation is great and it smells like candy! You may need a lip brush as finger application can be a tad messy on-the-go but the color is perfect for the season.

Soapbox Sea Minerals Body Wash (sample size included)

I don’t mind receiving sample size body washes because they are great for short getaways and this formula evokes a day at the beach with a soothing blend of aloe, shea butter, sea minerals and deep sea water! I absolutely love the scent, it smells as fresh and invigorating as a summer breeze and each bottle purchased gives soap to someone in need.

Maskeraide All Eyes On Me Hydrating Eye Gels (sample included 1 pair)

I am no stranger to Maskeraide, in fact I have reviewed many of their adorable masks in the past and they were all awesome! The gel eye patches brighten, firm, hydrate and reduce the fine lines and puffiness caused by annoying spring allergies. They make a great addition to weekly facials and can help you recoup after a long trip, sleepless night or a grueling day at work.

Chella Passionate Pink Moisturizing Lip Pencil (full size included ~ $18.00)

I’m not quite sure why this lip pencil retails for $18.00 because it’s mini (half a pencil really) and it doesn’t twist-up. It is also made of that plasticky feeling wood so it isn’t easy to sharpen. The color is nice but it’s more orangey red than pink and it glides on effortlessly with a comfortable formula and good color pay-off. I’m not familiar with this brand (the packaging says made in Germany) but a little more pencil would have been nice.

Global Beauty Care Green Tea Makeup Remover Wipes (full size included ~ $1.99)

When I saw that these wipes were only $2 for 30 I thought it was too good to be true and I expected dollar store quality. Thankfully I was wrong, they are moist enough to remove foundation, lip color and even most eye makeup which puts them on-par with common drugstore brands. The sheets are also infused with vitamins A, C and E to help tone and firm which is an unexpected bonus.

This month’s box was a definite hit! For more information or to sign up for the next box click HERE

Beauty Box 5 February 2016: 4th Anniversary!

This month Beauty Box 5 turns four and what a fabulous four years it’s been! The subscription service continues to gain popularity while introducing its loyal beauty addicts to new brands that keep us trendy and glam. This month’s theme is all about puckering-up and getting our sparkle on with a few makeup goodies and products infused with natural ingredients.

Before I delve into the box let’s review how the service works. Beauty Box Five is a subscription that starts at $12 for the monthly box, $30 for the quarterly subscription and $99 dollars for a year. You receive a mix of luxury items and common brands with products for: hair, skin and nails as well as fragrances and beauty accessories. The box contains 5 products and usually includes 1-3 full sized items. It is a great way to sample a variety of new brands!

Manna Kadar 3 in 1 Shadow, Highlight & Blush in the shade Fantasy (full size: $19)

I have never heard of this brand before but when I saw the shimmery rose gold shadow I was hooked! The color is beautiful and the pigmentation is even better! I was very impressed with the amazing color pay-off even without a base and the texture is soft, smooth and creamy so it glides on effortlessly. This flattering hue does work as a highlight but not as a blush. It was definitely my favorite product in the box!

Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Shadow Primer (sample size included)

Kudos to Beauty Box 5 this month for introducing me to yet another brand I had not previously tried! As many of you know I am a loyal fan of Urban Decay’s Primer Potion but I am always open to finding another that works just as well. This base makes skin feel very silky which improves application and I am impressed with how little product it took to cover my lids. A small dab applies very creamy and spreads evenly so although this sample is small it could last for months! The primer did seem to help my shadows stand-out a tad more but the results weren’t drastic. In terms of longevity, it did pretty well but I may have to test it out a bit more to draw my final conclusion.

Epic Blend Lip Balm in Blueberry (full size: $3.49)

I am very familiar with Epic Blend; in fact I have most of the collection! The all natural, organic formula alleviates dry lips, smells delicious and soothes chapped, rough, peeling skin as soon as you swipe it on. It is also gluten-free and contains nourishing ingredients like hemp, coconut oil, cocoa butter, vitamin E and rosemary.

Hemp Nation Kiwi-Mango Body Wash (full size included: $7.99)

I like hemp products but always question whether or not they are okay to travel with! Regardless I like to take these small bottles on short trips and this cleansing formula foams away oil, sweat and dirt leaving you refreshed and smelling great! This bottle is supposedly full-size (59 ml / 2 oz) but it seems more sample-size to me.

Starlooks Lip Liner in the shade Sultry Sangrita (full size: $16)

Admittedly I have a ton of lipsticks but not many liners so I always welcome a new one. This shade is quite neutral and glides on well for easy application. It does tend to smudge a bit as your lip color wears away but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Overall I found the formula quite basic but I like the color.

For more info on this subscription box you can visit the website by clicking HERE

Beauty Box Five December

I am a little behind on my Beauty Boxy Five updates but with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and the devastation of a recent street fire things have been a bit hectic! December’s box was mostly dedicated to enhancing the eyes and getting your glam-on but before we delve into each product let’s take a moment to review how the service works.

BeautyBox Five is a subscription that starts at $12 for the monthly box, $30 for the quarterly subscription and $99 dollars for a year. You receive a mix of luxury items and common brands with products for: hair, skin and nails as well as fragrances and beauty accessories. The box contains 5 products and usually includes 2-3 full sized items. It is a great way to sample a variety of new brands!

OFRA Shimmer Eye Shadow ($13.50)

This product alone is worth more than what you pay for the entire box which is pretty darn nice! OFRA Cosmetics has been a reoccurring brand in this subscription but their products continue to impress. This single shadow doesn’t come in a palette of its own so I will have to find a spot for it in my NARS refillable but the texture is smooth and velvety and the pigmentation is rich and intense. The shimmery grey is trendy for the season and one of my favorite hues for creating smokey eyes. I also like that it applies full-coverage with little to no fall-out.

Blender Brush ($10.00) and Prestige Cosmetics Total Intensity Eyeliner ($5.95)

Although eyeliners are useful and this one is creamy and highly pigmented I wasn’t very excited about getting another one. I was however happy about the Blender Brush which is actually made by Beauty Box 5! The pointed shape is idea for getting deep into the crease to define the eyes and the tip is sturdy yet flexible enough to blend well which makes it a fabulous addition to my collection!

The Beauty Crop Glamazon Stick ($22.00)

I never tire of beautiful highlight and this one contains nourishing cocoa butter and jojoba. The stick is a twist-up which I like and the color is sheer and silvery with a light dusting of micro-glitter to enhance your glow for holiday parties and New Years Eve. You can use it on your cheeks, brow bone, waterline or lids and the formula is quite blendable.

So Fresh So Clean Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes ($2.99)

These hypoallergenic wipes are great for travel and they help remove dirt, oil and makeup to cleanse pores, remove impurities and balance pH. Since I always need more makeup wipes these were a great addition.

This month’s box was fabulous and all of the items were full size which was a nice surprise! For more info about this subscription click HERE.

Beauty Box Five October 2015 Review

It's that time of the month again! My little blue box has arrived at the door bursting with pink goodies! This month’s girly theme included a couple items I have wanted to try for a while and I am quite happy with what I received.

Before I delve into the box let’s review how the service works. Beauty Box Five is a subscription that starts at $12 for the monthly box, $30 for the quarterly subscription and $99 dollars for a year. You receive a mix of luxury items and common brands with products for: hair, skin and nails as well as fragrances and beauty accessories. The box contains 5 products and usually includes 2-3 full sized items. It is a great way to sample a variety of new brands!

Nubar Mini Polish ($4.99)

I like mini bottles of nail polish because they take up less space and are idea for travel. At first I wasn’t sure about this baby pink Barbie hue called Pinktober as I usually stay away from milky shades but it actually looks good on my skin tone and works for manis and pedis. The thin brush isn’t too mini which allows for decent control and although it takes 2-3 coats to achieve opaqueness the finish is nice.

Styli-Style Perfect Pout Long-Lasting Balm Stick (full size included $4.99)

I have reviewed Styli-Style before, in fact I may already have this cute purple hue in my collection but I do like the creamy, hydrating texture and the light comfortable formula. These balm sticks provide nice pigmentation and smooth coverage that anyone with lips will appreciate. They are also affordable and make great stocking stuffers for women of all ages.

HappyFace Makeup Cleansing Cloth ($3.99)

I have seen a variety of these cloths on Instagram and as someone who likes to play with makeup and layer on the shadow I adore anything that can remove it quickly at the end of the day. The texture is super soft against the skin, like something you would use on a baby and they are machine washable so you can use them again and again! The directions state that cleanser is not required as the cloth is made to remove makeup with water alone although the oil in most foundations creates a smeared mess and only some of it comes off. I think the cloths are a good first step to cleansing and they are very gentle but I do need to follow up with a foaming cleanser afterwards and it is a bit difficult to remove mascara and waterproof liner with just water.

Ferro Cosmetics Pink Rhinestone Kabuki Brush ($25.00)

I never turn down more makeup brushes and this soft, plush kabuki feels fantastic and buffs on mineral foundation, powders, blush and bronzer. I love the texture, size, shape and pink tinged bristles but there is quite a bit of shedding when you start using it which I wouldn’t expect from a twenty five dollar brush. Like most brushes that shed it does taper off over time.

Knotty Hair Ties ($4.00)

A few weeks ago when I went to the L’Oreal Professionnel hair salon my stylist actually recommended these hair ties when she saw how much of my hair was getting wrapped around and caught in the ones I use. I was a bit concerned with the knot coming undone as it holds the tie together but you can move it up and down to adjust the size and it actually holds my long, thick hair quite securely. These hair ties are designed to prevent snags, breakage and the dreaded ponytail dent and they don’t look unstylish on your wrist when you need to keep them handy for hair emergencies.

Overall this month’s box was great and if you’d like more info you can visit the website by clicking HERE.

*Press samples featured

Beauty Box Five September

Fall is in the air and this month’s Beauty Box Five theme is all about being adventurous while soldering out of summer hues. 

Before I delve into the box let’s review how the service works. Beauty Box Five is a subscription that starts at $12 for the monthly box, $30 for the quarterly subscription and $99 dollars for a year. You receive a mix of luxury items and common brands with products for: hair, skin and nails as well as fragrances and beauty accessories. The box contains 5 products and usually includes 1-3 full sized items. It is a great way to sample a variety of new brands!

Be a Bombshell Cosmetics Eye Pencil in the shade Amazon (full size included- retail value $14.00)

This teal-blue crayon is my favorite color in this month's box, the shade is beautiful and it twists up for easy access requiring no sharpening. It is designed to be used on the lash lines for a pop of trendy color but the smooth, creamy texture is highly prone to smudging and fading. The pencil is also a bit large so it may work better as eye shadow although a primer is required to help keep it in place. A waterproof, longer lasting formula would have probably been a better idea.

Beautiful Nutrition Lemon Rinse (sample size included)

I’ve never used a hair rinse prior to trying this one and I was surprised by how soft it made my hair feel! As someone who uses a lot of leave-in conditioner, serum and oil anything that helps remove build-up, restore shine, seal cuticles and maintain a healthy scalp is welcome into my beauty routine. This rinse also prevents frizz, seals in moisture and revives dull, lifeless hair to boost volume, promote growth smooth cuticles, and cleanse. The scent smells exactly like fresh lemons or homemade lemonade and should be used after shampoo and conditioner.

Harvey Prince Sincerely Mini Roller Perfume (mini size includes- retail value $21.00)

I am all for small fragrances because they slip in your purse for use on the go and travel. This scent is very familiar with a sweet yet musky aroma that is okay but not fabulous. You can roll it directly onto the skin for a potent floral blend of freesia, orange flower and cedarwood.

Elizabeth Mott, Tints & Sass Lip + Cheek Stain (samples size included)

I’ve tried a stain similar to this in the past without much luck and this sweet, fruity formula isn’t much better. I prefer something more buildable and pigmented and this shade is very light, sheer and subtle. It applies as a translucent pinky-red and blends to leave behind a faint stain. If you want barely-there color and a natural rosy flush then you may like this but I need a bit more intensity.

Bellapierre Shimmer Powder in Snowflake (full size included- retail price $19.99)

I love the Bellapierre eye shadows! The loose formulas are highly pigmented, vivid and shocking with an amazing finish. This ultra shimmery silver is gorgeous on the lids and pairs beautifully with deeper crease shades for smouldering smokey looks.

Eye shadow swatches: Bellapierre Snowflake & Be a Bombshell Amazon Pencil

This month’s box wasn’t as exciting as last month and I’d love to see some higher-end brands in October. You can check out the subscription by clicking HERE.

*Press samples featured

Beauty Box Five August 2015

This month’s Beauty Box Five theme is all about adding new shades, tools and hydration to your getting-ready routine and there are four full-size products included! 

Before I delve into the box let’s review how the service works. Beauty Box Five is a subscription that starts at $12 for the monthly box, $30 for the quarterly subscription and $99 dollars for a year. You receive a mix of luxury items and common brands with products for: hair, skin and nails as well as fragrances and beauty accessories. The box contains 5 products and usually includes 1-3 full sized items. It is a great way to sample a variety of new brands!

Jerome Alexander Hot Stuff Go Pop Compact (price: $10.99- full size included)

I am always happy when I open my box and see a cute compact and this one looks like a little change purse with 3 shadows, 3 lip glosses and 2 brushes. The pink and purple pigments are girly and fun and the large mirror is great for application. Although I love the adorable packaging it reminds me of the toy compacts I played with as a kid so I didn't have high expectations for the quality. Thankfully I was totally wrong! The shadows are soft, smooth and slightly creamy with great pigmentation and a pretty shimmer finish. The colors apply well with or without primer and they don`t crease or fade. The gloss comes in deep orange, light pink and light orange but the finish is very sheer, shiny and creamy with little pigmentation and a light moisturizing formula.

Donna Max Printed Nail File with case (price: 4.99- fill size included)

Nail files are essential for your mani kit but when they are as cute and cheeky as this one you will definitely want to keep it in your purse! The handy carrying case also prevents it from dulling.

Starlooks Luxe Longwear Eyeliner Pen in the shade Plum (price: $19.99- full size included)

Recently I`ve been accumulating quite a few liners and although I didn`t really see the need to include another in this month's box I do like that they incorporated a plum pigment which is super trendy for fall! The point is medium size and the color glides on quite well allowing some versatility with regards to shape and width. I also like that it dries quickly and since the formula is waterproof it tends not to smudge.

Hask Beauty Deep Conditioning Hair Treatment (price: $2.39- full size included)

I am no stranger to Hask conditioner; in fact I have used them several times before with good results! The formula gives my hair a little pick-me-up when I need a boost of moisture and it leaves my strands softer and more resilient. Since I tend to have mishaps with hair products seeping out while I travel these are great for vacation especially when you plan to spend a lot of time in the sun, pool or ocean.

Pur~lisse Pure Moist Hydra-Balance Moisturizer (sample size included)

These sample tubes are also great for travel, especially short weekend getaways. Pur~lisse is a brand that has popped up in this box before and I do like the anti-aging benefits enriched with plant extracts and vitamin E. This formula is also safe for sensitive skin and provides a good dose of moisture to quench parched skin without the greasy residue. 

Overall this month’s box was a hit! I like all the products I received and I’m looking forward to seeing what goodies I get in September! For more information on this subscription you can visit the website by clicking HERE.

*Press samples featured

Beauty Box Five June 2015

It’s that time again, another little blue box has landed on my doorstep and this month’s theme is all about making a statement with your eyes, nails and complexion no matter where your travels take you. As many of you know I am an avid globetrotter so I was excited to see what goodies were in store for me this month!

Before I delve into the box let’s review how the service works. Beauty Box Five is a subscription that starts at $12 for the monthly box, $30 for the quarterly subscription and $99 dollars for a year. In this box you will receive a mix of luxury items and common brands with products for: hair, skin and nails as well as fragrances and beauty accessories. The box contains 5 products and usually includes 1-3 full sized items. It is a great way to sample a variety of new brands.

*LOL Rotational Eyeshadow Palette in the shade 06 Power to the Purple (Full size included: $3.00)

I love purple so I’m quite happy with the varying shades in this bold little palette. For just three dollars I expected the shadow to be more dollar store quality than drugstore but I was pleasantly surprised with the intense purpleness! This goes to show you that you can’t always judge a palette by it's price tag and I’m all for trying a new brand.

The shadows have good pigmentation with a lovely gradient of silvery purple to grape and full-on rich purple power! Some shades have an intense shimmer finish but the deeper hues don’t have as much making them perfect for the crease. You can create awesome summer looks with these pretty hues and with a good primer they last all day.

*Urban Decay Perversion Mascara (Sample size included)

I’ve received quite a few mascaras in past beauty boxes but as an Urban Decay fan I have high hopes for this one. The packaging says the mascara is “so intense you may need a safe word” and I’m all about the glam! With an ultra-creamy volumizing formula the triple-black pigment coats and deeply nourishes for “bigger, badder lashes.” I haven’t given this mascara a full-day test yet but so far I like what I see.

*Nails Inc. Nail Polish in the shade 104 Royal Botanical Gardens (Full size included: $9.50) &

*Simple Skincare Micellar Cleansing Water (Sample packet included)

This is the second or third time I’ve received a baby blue, milky polish from BB5 and I have to admit that it isn’t my favorite hue. I like how it looks on some people but I was hoping for something brighter and more appealing for the season. The polish is from a UK brand and formulated to provide high-quality coverage and mega staying power.

The Micellar Water by Simple is one I have tested before and I love the formula! Even after I think I’ve cleansed thoroughly the solution always finds makeup I’ve missed without drying out my skin. The only downside is that this sample is way too small! For a full review of the Micellar water click- HERE.

*Herbal Essences Body Wash (Samples included)

I haven’t used this brand since I was a kid but I love the sweet, juicy sent and rich lather. Although products like these don’t seem all that amusing when featured in a blog post you’d be surprised how handy these little samples are! On my last trip a few weeks ago I had a whole zip lock bag full of these little body products because I’ve ended up at my destination without my luggage more times than I’d like to remember. Having mini essentials on-hand eliminates the need to make an immediate panicked trip to the local store.

Overall I think this box is pretty good, the eye products were a hit and if I could replace the polish with another shade it would have been a total success! The box also included a bonus $20.00 gift card for Gorge Hair.

For more info on this beauty subscription click- HERE

*Press samples featured